Operating Mode Selection and Access Permission System PITmode

October 26, 2020

Safety and security functions in one system

The operating mode selection and access permission system PITmode combines safety and security functions in one system. The devices enable functionally safe operating mode selection and the control of access permissions on plant and machinery.

PITmode devices can be used on plant and machinery in which you must switch between a range of control sequences and operating modes. Each employee can be issued machine enables and permissions that correspond to his or her skills using coded transponder keys with RFID technology. The safe evaluation unit detects the specified operating mode, such as automatic, manual access under restricted conditions or service mode, then evaluates it and provides functionally safe switching. This prevents misuse and manipulation, while protecting human and machine.

Overview of PITmode models

PITmode fusion – the modular operating mode selection system

PITmode fusion is the modular version of the operating mode selection system. It consists of the reader unit PITreader with RFID technology and a separate evaluation unit (safe evaluation unit – SEU). The transponder keys are read and taught in the PITreader. The safe evaluation unit evaluates the selected operating mode to provide functionally safe switching between up to five operating modes. Safe permission management can also be solved comprehensively with PITmode fusion. By separating the components, PITmode fusion can be integrated flexibly into the design of existing control consoles and can be combined with existing pushbuttons.

PITreader – control of access permission

With PITreader you can implement tasks relating to access permissions for plant and machinery. The options range from a simple enable and authentication of specific machine subfunctions to a complex hierarchical permission matrix. The transponder keys are available in a freely writeable version and also with fixed, stored permissions. For manipulation protection the RFID keys can be coded using PITreaders with company-specific programming. PITreader is flexible and can be used as a standalone device or in conjunction with a Pilz controller.

PITmode flex and PITmode flex visu – Operating mode selection with PITreader and Pilz controller

In conjunction with the small controller PNOZmulti 2 or the automation system PSS 4000 it is possible with the PITreader not only to control access permissions but also to implement functionally safe operating mode selection. That’s because the safe evaluation unit used to read the selected operating mode is already available in the Pilz controllers as a function block. The operating mode is selected via a pushbutton (PITmode flex) or via touch input on a PMI panel (PITmode flex visu).

PITmode – the compact all-in-one device

With the compact all-in-one device PITmode the pushbuttons for operating mode selection and the safe evaluation unit are integrated in one device. Operating mode and permission are displayed safely via LED. The individual key coding prevents manipulation. The operating mode selector switch is also perfect for international use with pictograms for machines tools.

Benefits of the operating mode selection and access permission system PITmode